Anyone have a headache removing the companion flange from the front differential on an E53?

Gear puller doesn't seem to want to budge it, nor does a press.

The triangular flange doesn't seem to lean towards easy removal (seems to flex). Anyone run into this issue and find an easy fix?

While I'm waiting on parts, and with what I was experiencing, I figured I'd pull the front diff out quick to check it.

Wear paths look fine, but there's quite a bit of play in the pinion bearings. The ring's bearings look great.

I'd like to replace them while I have the diff out, but this flange is fighting me a bit.

Josh